Glens Falls Fixture Feigenbaum Cleaners Sold After More Than A Century In Business
BY PAUL POST
One of Glens Falls’ oldest family-run firms has been sold to new operators who pledge to continue the same high-quality service customers have enjoyed for the past 108 years.
Schenectady-based Best Cleaners recently purchased Feigenbaum Cleaners, founded by Eastern European immigrant Herman Feigenbaum in 1917. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Plans call for rebranding Feigenbaum sites at Wilton Square and Quaker Plaza in Queensbury, but closing its store and cleaning production facility on Bay Street in Glens Falls.
Best Cleaners, owned by Tim McCann, already has production facilities at two of its five locations in Schenectady, Loudonville, Delmar, Glenville and Latham.
Spokesperson Hannah Brand said McCann
was wanted to grow northward and Feigenbaum’s exemplified the same values his company is wellknown for.
“We want to expand our delivery routes up there,” she said. “Until now, we didn’t have any storefronts close enough where it seemed possible.”
Feigenbaum Cleaners was sold by Todd Feigenbaum, a third-generation owner, and his wife, Julie.
“I turn 70 this month,” he said. “My wife and I decided it was a good time to retire. The folks who acquired the business do a really good job. I’ve known them for many years. Tim is a thirdgeneration dry cleaner just like me. Our goal has always been to do right by the customer. I don’t think they’ll see much difference going forward.”
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Morcon Tissue Moves To Larger Greenwich Facility To Support Rapid Sales Growth
BY PAUL POST
Morcon Tissue’s move from Eagle Bridge to a larger Greenwich site is expected to accelerate already fast-paced sales that have grown from $20 million to $125 million annually since 2013, when President and CEO Joseph Raccuia purchased the firm.
Morcon buys large rolls of paper—more than eight feet wide—from domestic and overseas suppliers and converts it into disposable napkins, towels and tissue for the away-from-home market, which includes restaurants, nursing homes, hospitals and sports arenas.
It recently secured contracts to supply all Applebee’s and IHOP restaurants across the U.S., as well as AMC Theatres and half of all Dunkin’ franchises.
Morcon is moving into 90,000 square feet of leased space at a former Essity paper company facility that Fort Miller Group purchased earlier this year.
“It just gives us room to grow,” said Raccuia, former president and CEO of both Finch Paper in Glens Falls and South Glens Falls-based SCA Tissue North America. “We’ve got an excellent workforce. If we moved any more than 15 or 20 minutes from that Eagle Bridge facility, we ran the risk of losing employees. This allows us to re-
tain them and pull more from other places such as Schuylerville, Saratoga Springs and Moreau. It gives us more hiring options.” Morcon began using its new site for storage Continued On Page 11
Aviation Mall Charts New Course With $21 Million Sale, Plans Expanded Offerings
BY PAUL POST
Aviation Mall heads into the fourth quarter with a new owner anticipating increased traffic spurred by a growing lineup of entertainmenttype tenants.
Eric Jacobov, principal of the investment firm Concord Capital New York, purchased the 50-year-old Queensbury shopping center at auction for $21 million, on September 10.
A major new tenant, ADK Karting Experience featuring indoors go-kart racing on a quarter-mile track, is scheduled to open November 1 at the mall’s former Sears store location.
“ADK Karting should be a huge driver of foot traffic, about 1,500 people per week,” mall Manager James Griffith said. “It’s not just the karting, it’s 12,000 square feet of games, glowin-the-dark miniature golf, a café bar and breakout rooms. I fully expect that we’re going to pull traffic from Clifton Park and Saratoga.”
“Our job is to really market it and get more of that type of use into the shopping center,” he said.
Previously owned by Syracuse-based Pyramid Companies, the mall went into receivership in July 2024. For the past year, it has been managed by The Woodmont Company, of Fort Worth, Texas, on behalf of Deutsche Bank and M&T Bank, which received multiple offers.
The auction, at Warren County Municipal Center, concluded the judicial foreclosure process. Jacobov outbid the only other party on hand, a contingency of investors led by Michael Vopelak, which dropped out after offering $19 million for the property.
Bidding started at $7.4 million.
The $21 million sale price is well below the nearly $28 million non-recourse loan the bank gave Pyramid several years ago to make major renovations to the mall. So the lender is left on the hook for the approximately $7 million difference.
“We knew there were going to be bidders,” Jacobov said. “At the same time, the goal was to own it. Thankfully we’re here and get to move forward.”
Concord Capital, headquartered in Manhattan, manages multiple strip plazas. Aviation Mall is its first interior shopping center.
“The goal is to increase occupancy and start attracting new tenants and vendors,” Jacobov said. “We’d also like to add some additional signage off of I-87, and bring it onwards and upwards. We like upstate. We like the Capital Region. There’s a lot of potential here.”
The mall property is zoned for multi-family residential development as well.
“That’s definitely a bonus and (adds) potential to the plaza,” he said. “We’re going to look into that deeper. It’s a big plus.”
A similar strategy is planned for Wilton Mall, which Capital Region developer Faraz Khan purchased earlier this year for $25 million. Plans call for 300 apartments and 80 townhomes on the 100-acre site. Dwellings would
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Warren County Tourism Spending Tops $928M In 2024, Bolstering Local Tax Revenues
Visitors spent nearly $2.5 billion in the Adirondack Region last year, up from $2.3 billion in 2023, with Warren County representing 37 percent of the region’s tourism sales ($928 million). Essex County narrowly led with 39 percent ($964 million), according to the latest statewide impact study by Tourism Economics.
The Adirondack Region, defined as Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Lewis and Warren counties, continues to rely heavily on tourism. Nearly 19 percent of all employment in the six-county area is generated by the industry. Warren County led the region in 2024, supporting 8,610 tourism-related jobs.
Visitor spending in Warren County increased from $887.8 million in 2023 to $928.2 million in 2024, a rise of 4.5 percent. Lodging showed the largest growth, climbing from $446 million to $467 million. Spending also generated more than $58.2 million in local tax revenue, up 2.8 percent, and $54.5 million in state tax revenue, up 5.2 percent.
Tourism remains one of the county’s most important economic drivers. Warren County Tourism Director Heather Bagshaw
noted that without tourism revenue, each household would need to contribute an additional $3,750 annually to maintain current levels of government services.
Across the Adirondack Region, visitor spending generated $153.7 million in local tax revenue and $136 million in state tax revenue. Together, Warren and Essex counties accounted for more than three-quarters of the region’s $2.5 billion in visitor spending.
Statewide, visitor spending reached $93.99 billion in 2024, up 6.7 percent from the previous year and 27.7 percent higher than before the pandemic. Tourism remains one of New York’s largest industries, supporting close to 1 million jobs and generating billions in tax revenue that benefits communities across the state.
This article is based on information provided by the Warren County Tourism Department and the 2024 statewide tourism impact report compiled by Tourism Economics.
For more information, contact: Heather Bagshaw, Tourism Director, Warren County Tourism Department, bagshaw@ warrencountyny.gov, 518-761-7653.
This location at 89 1/2 Bay street was opened by Herman Feigenbaum, a European tailor, and his wife Jennie in 1917 in the family home in Glens Falls, NY as the first dry cleaner north of Albany. Courtesy Paul Post
Eric Jacobov, principal of the investment firm Concord Capital New York.
Joseph Raccuia, President and CEO of Morcon Tissue.
Courtesy Paul Post
Courtesy Morcon Tissue
Personnel Briefs
Adirondack Rehabilitation Medicine, PLLC is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Patrick O’Connor to its medical team, further expanding the practice’s specialized care for patients throughout the Capital Region and North Country.
Dr. O’Connor is Board-Certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, with extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of nerve and musculoskeletal conditions. He earned his undergraduate degree from Syracuse University and his Doctor of Medicine from Albany Medical College. He completed his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Rochester, where he served as Chief Resident during his final year.
Dr. O’Connor also completed a North American Spine Society (NASS)–recognized fellowship in Interventional Spine and Musculoskeletal Medicine at the University of Rochester.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. O’Connor to our team,” said Todd Jorgensen, MD, a senior partner of Adirondack Rehabilitation Medicine. “His expertise in interventional spine and musculoskeletal medicine complements our existing services and strengthens our ability to provide exceptional, patient-focused care in the region.”
Dr. O’Connor is now accepting new patients.
Adirondack Rehabilitation Medicine offers a wide range of services, including: Sports Medicine
Electrodiagnostic Medicine
Neuromuscular Medicine
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
Ultrasound-Guided Injections
To refer a patient or schedule an appointment, please call 518-798-0767.
Arrow Bank is pleased to announce that Emily Moore has joined the bank as Assistant Vice President, Business Banking Relationship Manager, a newly created position primarily serving its Northern Adirondack region and Plattsburgh market.
In her new role, Moore will specialize in helping business owners find the right financing solutions to support growth, streamline operations and navigate new opportunities. She will be responsible for developing new business and strengthening existing customer relationships. Moore will manage a book of business, collaborate closely with business partners and support retail teams with business banking development.
Moore is returning to Arrow Bank, where she began her financial career as a teller in 2014. She most recently served as Regional Loan Originator and Marketing Coordinator for North Country Savings Bank, where she played a key role in expanding the bank’s portfolio. Her previous experience also includes serving as an Account Clerk/Typist at the Clinton County Mental Health and Addictions Clinic.
Originally from Keeseville, New York, Moore currently lives in Plattsburgh. She is actively involved in her community as a member of Plattsburgh Noon Rotary, Adirondack Young Professionals, the Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Wish Fund Committee and the ADK Woman group. She is also a certified notary public.
KeyBank has named Erica Choi Capital Region market president, effective immediately. A 10year banking veteran with 25 years of leadership experience, Choi will continue to serve as sales leader for KeyBank’s Commercial Bank in the Capital Region. She will succeed Fran O’Rourke, who has announced her retirement after serving as Capital Region market president since 2021.
As market president and Commercial Bank sales leader, Choi will drive collaboration and coordination of KeyBank activities and resources in the market, serve as the face and voice of KeyBank in the community and manage a team dedicated to providing expertise and financial solutions to middle market clients in the Capital Region.
“Erica has played an important role in Key’s success in the Capital Region since joining the Commercial Bank team as a senior banker in 2020,” said Michael McMahon, executive for Commercial Banking in Upstate New York. “Her client-focused approach, reputation as a motivational and team-oriented leader and role in the local community make her well poised to assume the role of market president. Fran O’Rourke leaves big shoes to fill, and Erica is just the person to carry KeyBank into the future in the Capital Region.”
Prior to joining KeyBank, Choi worked for Bank of America in Albany as Middle Market relationship manager. She has also worked as senior area manager for the U.S. Small Business Administration in Albany, N.Y., senior brand manager for Beech-Nut Brand in Amsterdam, N.Y., and senior associate brand manager for Kraft Foods in Glenview, Ill.
Choi earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the United States Military Academy. She subsequently served in the United States Army from 2000 to 2005 as an intelligence officer, deploying in 2004 to lead a counter-terrorism team in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. She holds FINRA Series 7 and 63 licenses.
O’Rourke, who has an accomplished career in banking spanning more than 40 years, will retire at the end of 2025. She joined KeyBank in 2009, serving various roles in Key Private Bank, including market manager and regional sales executive.
“Fran O’Rourke is one of the most wellrespected business and community leaders in the Capital Region, due in large part to her leadership, compassion, and focus on both clients and the community that she loves,” said Catherine O’Malley Kearney. “Her effort to mentor and
champion women in the workplace has been profound, both within KeyBank and the greater Capital Region. While we will miss Fran’s steady leadership and big heart, we wish her all the best as she transitions into retirement.”
Erica Choi has been named Capital Region market president by KeyBank. Courtesy KeyBank
Fran O'Rourke plans to retirement after serving as Capital Region market president since 2021. Courtesy KeyBank
The Diner House Serves Up Classic Comfort As Owner Eyes Larger Location
BY PAUL POST
Jon LaRock’s restaurant odyssey has taken him from a South Glens Falls pizza shop to America’s last orange-roofed Howard Johnson’s, which he ran in Lake George before its closure several years ago.
“I started out at Ernie Jacobie’s (currently Humbuggs) at the corner of Gansevoort and Bluebird roads in South Glens Falls,” he said. “I used to pump gas for him across the street. Then one day he said, Do you want to start doing dishes? I said, Sure! Then I got into cooking. I was 15 years old.”
Last spring, with more than a half-century of experience under his belt, LaRock opened The Diner House at the corner of Main and Beech streets in Hudson Falls. Open daily, it specializes in breakfast and lunch menu items.
“This goulash is delicious,” Charles Mahay, a regular customer, said between bites. “And he makes a great hot turkey sandwich. I’ve had all the breakfast choices. I like them all. The Lumberjack special is my favorite.”
LaRock said he spent $5,000 to renovate the small space, a former aquarium shop. Now, after developing a local customer base, he plans on moving to a larger site, the former Seeley’s Restaurant, just down the road on Upper Broadway in Fort Edward. If all goes well, he hopes to move in this fall.
“I think it will be a good spot,” LaRock said. “It’s across the street from the (Fort Hudson) nursing home and next to Dollar General. I plan to start serving dinners again. We’d be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days per week.”
Downtown Fort Edward has suddenly become somewhat of a mecca for people in search of good food.
The long-standing Ye Old Fort Diner and Mamma’s Café were joined earlier this year by Kerrie’s Diner, whose owner Kerrie
Leclair moved into 70 Broadway after closing the former Northway Diner in Queensbury.
More recently, Grumbellies Eatery, previously located in Fort Ann, renovated and took over a former branch bank building at 159 Broadway, in front of Fort Edward Yacht Basin.
The former Seeley’s building is about a mile from downtown, giving LaRock a slightly different market to draw from.
“I’d love to have a restaurant open across the street because it brings more people to that area,” he said. “The more the merrier. I love competition. It’s great.”
After learning the restaurant business from Jacobie, and full of entrepreneurial ambition, LaRock opened his own eatery, Victoria’s, near Lamplighter Acres in Moreau. Next came a pizza shop at Exit 17, which he later sold to Cumberland Farms.
LaRock then went to work for the DeSantis family, which owned several Howard Johnson’s restaurants from Clifton Park to Lake George. “Wherever they got busy I ran and helped them out,” he said.
In 2015, he leased and reopened the Lake George Howard Johnson’s, which had closed four years earlier. The company’s restaurants, with orange roofs and blue spires, were popular with post-World War II travelers across America during the 1950s, 60s and 70s.
But competition from fast-food and other sit-down restaurants led to their demise. The Lake George Howard Johnson’s closed for good in June 2022 and is now home to Sushi Wa.
LaRock could retire if he wanted, but has no such plans.
“You run into a lot of nice people in the restaurant business,” he said. “That’s why I’m doing it. What are you going to do when you retire, sit home and watch TV all day? I’m not ready for that. I’m a go-er. Go, go, go!”
A Path for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Janice Durant established New Trails Business Consultants, Inc. in Queensbury a year ago. With more than 20 years of experience in franchising, she founded the company to help individuals transition from corporate careers to business ownership. She is passionate about empowering people to control their futures through entrepreneurship. “They might have always had that dream of being their own boss and working for themselves, maybe developing a family-owned business,” says Durant, “and I help them to explore opportunities.”
Durant’s own entrepreneurial journey began with a Sandler Training franchise in Albany, which she co-owned with her sister, Lorraine Ferguson, for 11 years. The experience provided her with firsthand knowledge of the benefits of franchising, including a standardized methodology, marketing support, and a pre-existing brand. After selling the franchise, she worked at Sandler’s corporate headquarters, where she led the franchise department and assisted new owners in getting started.
Durant, however, yearned for the independence of being her own boss again. “I was raised in a family of entrepreneurs—generations of business owners, including father-and-son teams, brothers, and married couples, all collaborating.” She felt a strong inclination towards consulting, a career she discovered through attending franchise conventions.
For individuals seeking to become a franchise owner, Durant’s services are complimentary. The franchisors compensate her for bringing them qualified leads. She begins by understanding the prospective owner’s “why”—what motivates them to seek business ownership. She looks for individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit and a willingness to follow a proven process.
“Many times during the conversations, we may uncover that they are more well-suited for starting their own independent business,” explains Durant. “Or maybe they just need to stay in the corporate world. So together we explore, really uncover, what they’re looking to achieve in their life, and I just guide them down the right path.”
Durant continues, “To operate a franchise, you have to be a bit of a unique individual. You have to have that entrepreneurial spirit. You have to really have that ambition, that drive to own your own business, go out, do sales, make it successful, and engage in your community. However, at the same time, you must also be willing to follow someone else’s process.”
Joining a franchise offers a clear blueprint for business setup and operation, including a proven methodology, essential resources, and
marketing backing. However, success hinges on strict adherence to their established methods.
To determine the right fit for a prospective owner, Durant conducts a four-part assessment. First, she evaluates the timing, considering personal circumstances such as raising young children, to ensure the commitment aligns with their lives. Next, she analyzes the territory to confirm that the market can support the franchise concept based on demographics. Third, they discuss financials, including the client’s comfort level with investing, credit scores, and income replacement goals. Finally, and most importantly, they assess the fit. This emotional and cultural alignment is crucial as a franchise is a long-term partnership that requires a belief in the brand, its products, and its leadership. Durant notes, “There are 4,000 franchises in the US – a pretty big pool to select from. And it can be overwhelming because they’re in 70 different industries. Many times when I talk to people about franchising, McDonald’s or Subway are the first to come to mind. But there is a wide variety of industries from home services to pet care, senior care, child care, entertainment, and event planning, among others.”
Durant’s expertise is not limited to helping prospective owners. She also assists existing businesses that are considering franchising their model. She conducts a Franchise Assessment Study to determine if a business is “franchise-able.” If the study shows the com-
Janice Durant of New Trails Business Consultants, Inc. in Queensbury.
Courtesy New Trails Business Consultants, Inc.
Long-time restaurateur Jon LaRock owns The Diner House in Hudson Falls and plans on moving to a larger space, the former Seeley’s Restaurant on Upper Broadway in Fort Edward. Courtesy Paul Post
New York’s Statewide Smartphone Ban Is Now In Effect For The 2025–26 School Year
BY NANCY NISSEN, ESQ.
With back-to-school now underway, New York state Gov. Kathy Hochul’s smartphone ban, included in her “distraction-free school” policy approved as part of the New York State Fiscal Year 2026 state budget, took effect this fall for the 2025-2026 school year. Gov. Hochul’s goal builds on earlier actions targeting social media, like the SAFE for Kids Act, which limits addictive feeds, and the Child Data Protection Act, which restricts companies from collecting minors’ data. Th e phone ban continues this agenda, helping to protect and care for students’ mental health and promoting student success in the digital age.
Hochul’s “bell-to-bell” smartphone ban requires that districts ban all personal internetenabled devices including smartphones, tablets and smartwatches on school grounds for the entire school day. This requires all devices to be switched off and stored throughout the day. Districts must submit plans on how they will manage devices.
There are exceptions for the use of devices to manage a medical condition, language translation, specific educational purposes, and the use of devices as part of a child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 plan. The plan, passed by both the New York state Senate and Assembly, and was signed into law by Hochul as part of the 2026 state budget, applies to public school districts, charter schools, and BOCES schools. Private schools and higher education institutions are not covered by the law.
What’s Included the Smartphone Ban
The smartphone ban prohibits unsanctioned use of smartphones and other internet-enabled personal devices on school grounds in K-12 schools for the entire school day. Districts have been allowed to create their own plans for storing smartphones and other devices, with all schools and BOCES programs required to submit their policies by Aug. 1.
The governor’s plan includes $13.5 million in funding for schools who need to purchase storage solutions, and also requires that schools provide parents a way to contact their children during the day when necessary. However, it is currently unclear how districts will ensure that is possible.
Specifically, the statewide standard for distraction-free schools in New York includes the following:
• No unsanctioned use of smartphones and other internet-enabled personal devices on school grounds in K-12 schools for the entire school day (from “bell to bell”), including classroom time and other settings like lunch and study hall periods.
• Allows schools to develop their own plans for storing smartphones during the day — giving administrators and teachers the flexibility to do what works best for their buildings and students.
• Secures $13.5 million in funding to be made available for schools that need assistance in purchasing storage solutions to help them go distraction-free.
• Requires schools to give parents a way to contact their kids during the day when necessary.
• Requires teachers, parents and students
to be consulted in developing the local policy.
• Prevents inequitable discipline.
• Students will still be authorized to have access to simple cellphones without internet capability, as well as internet-enabled devices officially provided by their school for classroom instruction, such as laptops or tablets used as part of lesson plans.
“New York was the first state to target addictive social media feeds — and now we’re the largest state to restrict smartphones in schools throughout the entire school day,” Hochul stated in May 2025, when the ban was announced. “I know our young people succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling — and that’s why New York continues to lead the nation on protecting our kids in the digital age.” Impact on IEP, 504 Plans
Moving forward, it will become necessary to address the use of technology regarding a student’s individualized education plan (IEP) or 504 Plan. There is already significant litigation over the funding of devices and technology regarding IEPs, and it is expected that this litigation will increase with the smart phone ban. Additionally, it is expected that this ban will significantly impact the duration and frequency of suspensions and detentions over smartphone usage. Parents are encouraged to review their district’s code of conduct to learn about their district’s smartphone discipline policy.
The New York state education law attorneys at Tully Rinckey can help you achieve your goals when it comes to your child’s academic well-being and future. If you have questions about IEPs or transition planning, our team of attorneys is available to assist you today. Please call (888) 970-4076 to schedule a consultation or schedule a consultation online.
Nancy Nissen, Esq. is a Partner at Tully
Nancy Nissen, Esq. is a Partner at Tully Rinckey, PLLC.
Courtesy Tully Rinckey, PPLC
Home / Energy
Heat Pump Technology Advances Make Mini Splits A Viable Option For North Country Homes
BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL
Compact heat pump systems are gaining popularity in the northeast as manufacturers make them increasingly efficient, and efficiency means savings on rising energy costs, said Ron LaDue, a BPI certified estimator and project manager with Jack Hall Plumbing and Heating. The family-owned company dates back to 1984 and is based in Glens Falls.
LaDue said about 20 percent of business involves the sale, installation and service of split heat pump systems for new construction, home renovations, and commercial buildings. But that percentage is “slowly increasing.”
“Five years ago very few brands of these systems ran efficiently, as far as capacity of the unit and energy usage,” he said.
Mini split systems involve wall units in selected rooms, which serve as heating and cooling zones, LaDue said. They make minimal noise and operate with a remote or smart phone.
Heat pumps pull heat from outside air to warm a residence and cold air to cool it. The system involves one or more exterior pumps that operate on electricity and have been especially efficient where weather is not extremely cold.
“Technology is getting to the point where the units are more suitable for single-digit temperatures and below,” said LaDue. “Every major brand today can run at -13 degrees and some claim as low as -22 degrees.”
“At these temperatures, heat pumps will provide 60 percent of their advertised capacity, which make them viable in areas like Scroon Lake,” he said.
If there are only a few negative double-digit days a year, oversizing the unit could cover those days, but up-front costs would be higher, he said.
“Some days there literally isn’t enough heat for the units to pull inside,” said LaDue. “The coil in the unit begins to ice up and the system shuts down. Modern technology allows them to defrost themselves, but at a certain point they cannot defrost fast enough.”
“Customers on the lake have accessories installed that protect the fan and coils from wind and snow,” he said. “But if temperatures sustain the negative twenties, the equipment will shut off until it is warm enough to come back on.”
Homeowners need a secondary heat source like a pellet stove or fireplace when the pump cannot, he said. No such issues when it comes to cooling in summer. Split systems are more efficient than central air and thus cheaper to run.
Most customers are retrofitting an older home, LaDue said. Their numbers are growing, and the market is changing.
Next year all new residential construction in New York must be specced for a geothermal or heat pump system, he said. Lawmakers are eliminating oil, natural gas, and propane heat and appliances for home use.
“You’ll be seeing more houses with mini split systems, which are an easy installation for a smaller
house,” said LaDue. “Homes more than 1,200 square feet need more than one pump.”
“A popular option now is a heat pump that uses the same outside unit as a mini split. It connects to an indoor air handler similar to a furnace, but is all electric,” he said.
LaDue said legislative change will nearly double the cost of new HVAC. But system efficiency over time offsets the cost.
While the U.S. Department of Energy claims “ductless heat pumps can reduce electricity use for heating by up to 30 percent compared to traditional electric resistance systems,” LaDue said savings are difficult to quantify because there are many variables.
Meanwhile, energy incentives help offset costs, but check a tax advisor. The federal tax credit, due to expire in 2025, is limited to income tax liability. Individuals should also investigate rebates at NYSERDA.ny.gov and their power company.
For the most control, look into the mini split. Each outdoor pump controls up to five head units, although one head cannot be heating while another is cooling, he said.
LaDue said the firm has several manufacturers they prefer to work with, but may consider another brand at the customer’s request.
“Our focus is on quality systems and workmanship,” said LaDue. “I tell people, go get three estimates and do the homework so someone doesn’t sell you a system that doesn’t work for you.”
“We won’t be the cheapest of the three and probably not the most expensive,” he said. “We will make sure that the customer is educated and prepared, because trends come and go and technology constantly changes, but our old-fashioned work ethic does not.”
Assured Home Inspections Focuses On Thorough And Trusted Service Delivery
BY SUSAN ELISE CAMPBELL
When Mike Feeder of Assured Home Inspections is hired for a home inspection, he does three jobs.
He investigates the entire structure of the house and its systems. He detects what might be missing or done improperly. And he evaluates the current and future health and safety of the home.
Th is will take Feeder about three hours, whereas some competitors spend one and a half. So when customers ask, “How much is this going to cost,” he says they’re asking the wrong question.
“A home is probably the biggest investment they ever make,” said Feeder. “They should be asking themselves if this is a good time to cut corners on that investment.”
“I’ve been in this business for 35 years and used to build homes,” said Feeder. “I’m doing inspections for prior clients’ kids and in some cases, their grandkids. And I just inspected one house for the fourth time over the years.”
All home inspectors have licensing and educational requirements, plus continuing education, to meet standards set by the state. Th is means the licensed inspector demonstrates a basic knowledge of how the underlying systems in a home work, said Feeder.
“A home buyer or homeowner should want to know where their inspector got their training,” he said. “Was it a correspondence course, which was allowed years ago, or did they go to a school?”
“What matters most is the kind of information they are learning, because that is what can save a person from buying a money pit,” he said. “My job is not to save them money now, but later on.”
Long before it was required, Feeder drove out of state on Sunday nights and came home Fridays until he had enough credits to earn a full inspector’s certificate.
He’s still going to classes, twice the hours required for continuing education, to learn about new plumbing and heating systems, new electric systems, and safety updates. There is always new equipment and technology to learn, such as thermal imaging, on-contact moisture meters, sewer scopes, and drones for looking at a roof, he said.
“My tool pouch was much smaller 35 years
ago,” said Feeder. “But the benefit to clients is we fi nd things they would never be aware of without a home inspection.”
Feeder has several markets: home buyers, which is the largest group; home sellers preparing to put their house on the market; and homeowners who have lived in their home a long time and want to know if it is safe and how long it will last.
“The reason I got into home inspection is it’s my opportunity to introduce somebody to their new home,” said Feeder. “What do they need to know that could negatively or positively affect the value of that house, and what to keep an eye on for deferred maintenance.”
Inspectors look from the foundation to the top of the roof and everything that comes in and out, such as water and sewer line. They test for mold, pests, water flow, plus radon, irrigation, pools, and more. Feeder said he looks for signs of aging and for something that was either never installed correctly or needs servicing or updating. Inspectors must be, Feeder said, knowledgable and objective.
“Sometimes during a walk-through people get very emotional about a space,” he said. “My job is to take the emotion out of the decision.”
Continued On Page 7
Far right, Jack Hall legend and founder, joined by Hall family members.
Courtesy Kaitlyn Tracy Photography
Mike Feeder of Assured Home Inspections prepares tools from his truck before an inspection.
Courtesy Assured Home Inspections
GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL
Fitness / Nutrition
No More Extreme Rules: Now Create Balanced Nutrition Plans You Can Enjoy For Life
BY JENNIE DORE MS, RD, CDN
When you decide to recommit to your health or weight loss journey, what are the first things you think you have to do?
Be more strict?
Eliminate foods?
Intermittent fast?
Be told exactly what to eat?
More willpower?
These are actually many of the actions limiting you from seeing the progress you desire. You don’t need to be extreme to be successful. Following more rules and eliminating aspects of your life you enjoy is actually setting you up to feel restricted and giving power to these foods. When we can’t have something we desire, we want it MORE. More often leads to access, and then feeling stuffed and guilty, which just continues to fuel the all-or-nothing diet rollercoaster.
Willpower is a temporary feeling. It is an emotion; emotions are fleeting. Instead of relying on temporary tactics, we need to create reliable strategies that set you up for success.
Understanding what YOUR body needs to feel your best and manage cravings, while including aspects of your life and nutrition you enjoy, is key to sticking with it and enjoying the process.
One of my favorite things that happens when I work with my clients is seeing them be able to add back in foods they either restricted out of fear of overeating, gaining weight, or thought they were intolerant to.
Yes, food allergies and intolerances are absolutely a real thing. But what I have seen with the hundreds of people I have worked with, more often, when we focus on the basics, digestion, energy, and stubborn fat loss improve.
The Basics of Nutrition and Wellness;
• Maintain a steady rhythm each day with regular eating intervals. Avoid waiting eight hours during the day between meals when you are absolutely ravenous. This is often when overeating and not making the best food choices happen. Creating a meal rhythm for your day can look many different ways based on your schedule, but in general, having three balanced meals, four to six hours apart, and adding a snack as needed is a good place to start.
• Plan ahead three balanced meals with sources of protein, complex carbohydrates, and
Courtesy Jennie Dore
healthy fats. Add in a snack or two based on hunger levels and activity level. If you hope your meals work out for the day, this will likely not work to your advantage. Having nutrient-dense meals ready to grab during busy days does require some planning ahead. But taking this time ahead will ultimately save you time and stress, so you can focus on other things that need your attention and have the sustained energy to perform your best.
• Sit down, slow down, and chew your food. Making mealtime more intentional and limiting stressful activities will help with the digestion and absorption of your food. When you are present at your meal, you will also feel more satisfied after eating.
Nutrition can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be, when you know what works best for YOU. My recommendation is to ditch the all-or-nothing thinking with dieting and nutrition. Bring it back to the basics of nutrition and wellness to create lasting results you feel good.
Learn more at www.jenniedore.com
Editor’s Note: The September printed issue misidentified the article byline. The story should have been credited to Jennie Dore, MS, RD, CDN. We regret the error
All Sports Facility Opens In Fort Edward With Multi-Sport Training And Competition Space
BY PAUL POST
Dan McQuay purchased the former Agway store on Upper Broadway in Fort Edward with the idea of flipping it for a profit.
Upon closer inspection, he quickly realized its 14- and 18-foot-high ceilings were just right for the business he’s always wanted to run.
The aptly-named All Sports Facility opened June 1 with training and competition space for a variety of activities including baseball, softball, pickleball, basketball, soccer, field hockey and lacrosse.
“I looked at it and said, I think we can make this work for just about any sport, not just baseball,” said McQuay, a Schuylerville resident and retired U.S. Marine. “Our big differentiator is that we’re catering to training in all disciplines.”
The building had been vacant for almost a decade when he bought it.
“Structurally it’s in great shape, but we replaced floors, plumbing and HVAC,” McQuay said.
Something “north of a million” dollars later, the gleaming interior has six baseball-softball cages, a basketball-pickleball court and a separate large indoor turf area for soccer, lacrosse and field hockey.
There’s also a strength and conditioning room with weights and exercise equipment.
Out back, behind the building are two lighted pickleball-basketball courts and a spacious fenced in grassy area for youth baseball or Pee Wee football practice. It may also be rented for special events such as birthday and graduation parties, “anything and everything you can think of,” McQuay said.
He adhered to a simple philosophy when pursuing his dream.
“Like they teach you in the Marines, if you’re going to do something, do it right!” he said. “I’ve been in a lot of different facilities. You know what you like and what you don’t. It’s got to be attractive. We’re not a gym. We’re a facility for space, so I wanted to make it appealing to the eye.”
Originally from St. Louis, McQuay is an avid baseball fan who grew up rooting for the Cardi-
nals, but fell in love with upstate New York after marrying his wife, a Glens Falls native.
During the COVID pandemic, he helped found the Schuylerville Stallions youth baseball program. There are several indoor sports facilities in the Glens Falls area, Clifton Park and immediate Capital District, but McQuay wanted to put his own stamp on something, close to home.
Previously, he’d taken his son and daughter, Schuylerville High School athletes, to a training center in Latham.
“In winter you don’t want to travel an hour to go practice or play a game,” he said.
All Sports Facility Manager Brittney Sprague said, “Parents are investing so much time and money, sometimes you spend more time in a car than practicing. It gets to be a lot. Dan really wanted a place where kids didn’t have to go so far.”
“You have a place to come inside here and practice if it rains or on those super crazy-hot summer days,” she said.
The baseball-softball cages have automatic pitching machines. One tunnel is equipped with Rapsodo technology that measures a pitched or batted ball’s metrics. There’s also a HitTrax that simulates live baseball.
Eventually, McQuay hopes to add golf simulators, further enhancing the site’s “All Sports” reputation.
Sprague is in charge of softball instruction, and McQuay is seeking qualified individuals to teach other sports.
Currently open from noon to 8 p.m., plans for call extending hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. beginning Oct. 1.
The venture’s success will largely hinge on time management. For example, pickleball courts may be rented to adults in morning, while afternoons and evenings are catered more to youth team sports.
“I believe there’s enough teams in all sports and enough population in all these communities – Queensbury, Glens Falls, South Glens Falls, Hudson Falls, Fort Edward and Schuylerville – to really make this work,” McQuay said.
Jennie Dore MS, RD, CDN, is a registered dietitian and a certified health coach.
Brittney Sprague feeds a baseball into a pitching machine at the new All Sports Facility, which opened recently on Upper Broadway in Fort Edward.
Paul Post photo
A New Holiday Tradition: Kringle Kottage Brings
Inclusive Christmas Magic To Lake George
For many families, visiting Santa is a cherished holiday tradition. But for children and adults with sensory sensitivities, the bustling, noisy environments of malls and attractions can make that experience overwhelming.
This holiday season, the newly formed K Kringle Foundation is changing that with the creation of the Kringle Kottage — a specially designed Christmas cabin where the magic of Santa will be accessible to all.
The idea came from Roger Allan, who portrayed Santa in Lake George last year. As the father of a neurodivergent adult son, Allan witnessed how challenging it can be for families to find an environment that feels both comfortable and inclusive.
“Playing Santa last year opened my eyes to just how many families couldn’t comfortably experience the holiday magic in traditional settings,” said Allan. “As a parent, I know how important it is to offer a space that is safe, welcoming, and truly magical for everyone.”
Where Christmas Wonder Meets Inclusion
Set to open on the grounds of the Fort William Henry Hotel & Conference Center, the Kringle Kottage will be designed to look just like Santa’s home-away-from-home. From frosted windows and roof dormers to a cozy fireplace and a ceilingsuspended train, every detail is meant to immerse guests in holiday wonder.
Beginning the day after Thanksgiving, families can schedule private visits with Santa by booking online at kringlekottage.org (booking will be available soon). Each 15-minute appointment is crafted to create lasting memories while eliminating the stress of long lines. During the reservation process, families and caretakers will complete a short questionnaire to share the child’s or adult’s needs. This allows the Kottage team to tailor the experience—adjusting lighting, music, and décor as needed—ensuring a truly seamless, sensoryfriendly visit with Santa.
Outside of their appointment, visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities, outdoor fires, and hot drinks for purchase.
Santa and his volunteer “elves” will also receive specialized training to best support neurodivergent guests, ensuring that every visitor feels seen, respected, and celebrated.
Trails
Continued From Page 3
pany is not ready, she provides a report with suggestions for improvement. If the business has strong potential, she offers a step-bystep process for franchising, which includes creating franchise disclosure documents, developing an operations manual, and providing support in legal, sales, and marketing areas. Franchising is not about working for someone else; it’s about leading, growing, and scaling your own business. Contrary to popular belief, prior industry experience isn’t necessary; fran-
Inspections
Continued From Page 5
If informed of a problem, the home buyer can decide to negotiate the purchase price, ask the seller to share in the cost or replacement or repair, or move on to the next property. When home sellers have a pre-listing inspection done, they have the same valuable information at hand to anticipate what might come up and what they may wish to repair before putting their home on the market, Feeder said.
“I can tell you when it’s a buyer’s market because more sellers call for an appointment,”
“Our hope is that the community will rally behind this project and help us bring the Kringle Kottage to life,” Allan said. “By joining us on September 25, or by donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, you can be part of creating memories that will last a lifetime for children and adults who deserve this joy.”
Kicking Off with “Deck the Docks” September 25
To launch this initiative, the community is invited to celebrate at Deck the Docks: Kringle Kottage Celebration on Thursday, September 25, at 6 p.m. at the Lake George Beach Club.
The evening, co-hosted by Lake George Beach Club and Lake George Tiki Tours, will feature shareable bites and small plates, raffle prizes, and a complimentary Tiki Tour boat ride. Raffle items are sponsored through in-kind donations from 25 Silver Boutique and will include trending items such as jewelry, watches, handbags, Bogg bags, and accessories. Guests can also bid in a special auction for a private charter with Lake George Tiki Tours for up to 16 passengers (valued at $675!).
Adding to the magic, Santa — founder of the K Kringle Foundation — will be on hand throughout the evening to mingle with guests, spread holiday cheer, and share the mission behind Kringle Kottage.
In the spirit of giving, attendees are encouraged to bring non-shatter snow globes, which will be placed in Kringle Kottage for Santa’s visitors to safely touch, explore, and enjoy throughout the holiday season. All proceeds from the event will directly support the construction and operation of the Kringle Kottage.
Event Details
What: Deck the Dock: Kringle Kottage Kick Off Celebration
When: Thursday, Sept. 25, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where: Lake George Beach Club, 3 Montcalm St, Lake George, NY
Tickets: $65 per person, includes food, raffle prizes, and Lake George Tiki Tour boat ride. Cash bar available.
Proceeds: Benefit the K Kringle Foundation and Kringle Kottage
Tickets & Info: Direct link: https://givebutter. com/wyGyL9
chisors provide extensive training. The model also fosters a sense of community, with many owners describing their fellow franchisees as a professional family.
Durant is a strong advocate for franchising as a way to support local economies. She notes that franchise owners are often community members who hire local people, keeping business and money within the area. She aims to continue growing her business and becoming more involved in the local community, where she sees significant development opportunities.
Get more information on New Trails Business Consultants, Inc. at https://newtrailsbusiness.com.
he said.
Any long-term homeowner who wants to prevent a minor problem from evolving into a big expense will get value from periodic maintenance inspections.
“Houses change like children grow,” he said. “Just as I didn’t notice reaching 6’1”, what starts out small in the home grows slowly over time and you don’t notice the incremental changes.”
“Whether inspecting a million dollar home or a shack, when my report is complete I want to be comfortable saying, I would let my kids live here,” Feeder said.
Assured Home Inspections serves all of the Capital Region and North Country. Visit www.asrdhome.com for more details.
518-744-7791
mlongley10@yahoo.com
Fort Ticonderoga Welcomes Fall With History, Scenic
Beauty and Family Fun
From the shores of Lake Champlain to the heights of Mount Defiance, Fort Ticonderoga offers picturesque views around every corner and family-friendly activities this fall that capture the essence of the season. Ticonderoga’s defi ning history and signature stories are highlighted through innovative story telling on a grand scale, historic trades, daily soldiers’ life programs, enriching guided tours, thrilling weapons demos, boat cruises, endless outdoor activities, captivating signature events, and premium exclusive experiences.
“Surrounded by magnificent autumn backdrops of the Adirondacks and Green Mountains, the epic beauty makes Fort Ticonderoga a must-see destination any time of year, but especially during the fall,” said Beth L. Hill, Fort Ticonderoga president & CEO. “Daily offerings bring visitors into Fort Ticonderoga’s defi ning story through hands-on activities, programs and exhibitions which inspire the joy of learning together for families and visitors of all ages, while gaining a deeper understanding of our nation’s past and its meaning to us today.”
Family Friendly Fall Fun
Get lost in history in the 6-Acre Heroic Corn Maze & Maze Quest Adventure! Th is year’s maze isn’t just a challenge; it’s a unique, immersive journey back to the very beginnings of America, featuring an all-new REAL TIME REVOLUTION™ design created to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. A NEW Maze Quest: Great Journeys of the Revolutionary War transports visitors through America’s founding story.
Enhance your visit with a 75-minute narrated cruise aboard the Carillon tour boat. Explore what lies beneath Lake Champlain in some of the most archaeologically rich waters in North America while you are surrounded by breathtaking lake views, commanding moun-
tains and the majestic fort. Cruises operate through October 17, 2025.
Premium tours inside the fully restored 1826 Pell Pavilion allow you to delve into the exquisite details and enjoy this treasured historic National Landmark home and the treasures within. Don’t miss out on this EXCLUSIVE experience offered Tuesday afternoons through October 14, 2025.
Upcoming Fall Events
• October 4 | Heritage Harvest & Horse Festival: A full day of autumn fun set amidst the heirloom apple trees of the King’s Garden. Watch exciting demonstrations of working animals, meet friendly farm animals, and stroll through a local farmers’ market. The day also includes the Heroic Corn Maze and the Carillon boat tour, making it an annual family tradition.
• October 25-26 | REAL TIME REVOLUTION™ Living History Event: British Prisoners of War at Ticonderoga: Discover the harrowing saga of captured British soldiers and their families following American victories in 1775. Th is immersive, two-day event offers a glimpse into a different perspective of the Revolutionary War.
• November 8: REAL TIME REVOLUTION™ Living History Event: Veterans Day: Honor veterans with a living history experience exploring the rigors and sacrifices of the fi rst campaign of the Revolutionary War and how early American soldiers understood their service.
Fort Ticonderoga and Mount Defiance are open for visitation Tuesday-Sunday through October 26, 2025 from 9:30 am-5:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased, including Carillon boat tours and premium programs, online in advance by visiting www.fortticonderoga. org or the day-of at the Admission’s Booth. General admission tickets are valid for two consecutive days!
Fort Ticonderoga overlooks Lake Champlain, offering sweeping fall views and family-friendly programs that bring history to life.
Courtesy Carl Heilman II
Insurance / Employee Benefits
Business Report
BY ROSE MILLER
The workplace is more multigenerational than ever. With many employees delaying retirement and Generation Z entering in full force, as many as five generations are now working side by side. This diversity brings incredible strengths, but it also creates challenges. Each generation carries distinct values and expectations, and business leaders must recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach to employee benefits no longer works.
As I advise companies, I often remind them that wages and benefits are more than a cost of doing business—they are a core recruiting and retention strategy. To remain competitive, organizations must evaluate their benefits through the lens of their workforce’s evolving needs. And today’s employees are asking for much more than health insurance and a 401(k).
Here are some of the benefits I see gaining the most traction in the marketplace:
• Flexible work arrangements: Employees value flexibility, whether it’s hybrid schedules or the ability to set their own hours. While not possible in every industry, flexible models allow organizations to balance employer needs with employees’ desire for work-life balance.
• Health and wellness programs: Mental health support is no longer a “nice-to-have.” Employees are experiencing higher levels of stress and burnout, and benefits such as counseling, mental health days or therapy access can be game changers.
• Fitness perks: Gym memberships or fitness discounts not only encourage healthy lifestyles but also reduce long-term health costs for employers.
• Comprehensive health insurance: Benefits that cover dental, vision and even alternative care are especially appealing. Enhancements such as cancer prevention programs or IVF coverage show employees that employers are paying attention to real-life needs.
• Professional development: Younger generations in particular are “screaming” for mentorship and training. Investing in courses, certifications and leadership development not only supports growth but also strengthens succession planning.
• Financial wellness programs: Student loan debt and retirement planning weigh heavily on employees. Providing financial guidance or assistance not only reduces stress but also fosters loyalty.
• Family support: Supplementing paid family leave, childcare assistance or on-site childcare can help address the very real family support crisis many working parents face today.
• Recognition and rewards: High-performing employees want to be acknowledged beyond base pay. Incentives, bonuses and even peer recognition programs are effective in driving performance.
• Equity and inclusion: Benefits that reflect workforce diversity—such as gender-affirming care—demonstrate commitment to inclusivity and can reduce conflict while building understanding.
• Pet-friendly perks: For many employees, pets are family. Coverage for veterinary costs or designated pet-at-work days is increasingly expected.
• Time off and sabbaticals: Trust-based vacation policies and extended sabbaticals recognize that productivity is measured by outcomes, not hours in a chair.
• Unique perks: Low-cost options such as streaming service discounts or paid volunteer days can also go a long way in building goodwill and engagement.
Managing a workforce across generations requires intentionality. Ignoring generational differences in benefit preferences is shortsighted. But when companies diversify and target their offerings, they not only enhance employee satisfaction but also strengthen their ability to attract and retain top talent in a competitive labor market. In short, benefits are no longer an administrative line item—they are a strategic tool. Employers who adapt will have the advantage.
Rose Miller is president of Suite Advice LLC. She can be reached at rosemiller@suiteadvicellc.com
Business Report
Life Insurance Purpose In Retirement
BY DAVID M. KOPYC, CRPC®
As life expectancies increase, retirement planning now involves preparing not just for an individual’s final years, but for a potentially decades-long period of health and financial needs.
For the growing number of blended families, this reality brings unique challenges in legacy planning. Ensuring fairness and security for both a current spouse and children from a previous marriage requires careful foresight. Fortunately, new linked-benefit products— which combine life insurance with long-term care (LTC) coverage—offer a versatile and tax-efficient solution that addresses both needs simultaneously.
Navigating the complexities of blended families in retirement
In a traditional family structure, asset division is often straightforward, with the surviving spouse typically inheriting the bulk of the estate. For blended families, however, this approach can inadvertently disinherit children from a prior marriage. For example, if a parent leaves everything to their new spouse, that spouse could later change their will to leave all assets to their biological children, leaving the firstmarriage children with nothing. This can cause significant rifts and legal battles, especially with larger estates.
Even without overt family conflict, a blended family’s financial security is more complex. A couple may be focused on providing for their current spouse, while also wanting to leave a meaningful inheritance for their respective children. In the event one spouse needs longterm care, the substantial cost can quickly deplete the couple’s shared assets, including the very inheritance they intended for their children.
The modern solution: Linked-benefit life insurance
For those seeking to secure both long-term care and a guaranteed legacy, linked-benefit products have emerged as a strategic solution. These hybrid policies integrate the dual benefits of life insurance and long-term care coverage into a single contract. By repurposing an asset, a policyholder can leverage it to provide income tax-free long-term care benefits. The key advantage is the “no use, no lose” proposition: If the LTC benefits are never used, the full death benefit is paid out to beneficiaries. This removes the risk of paying premiums for a traditional LTC policy that could go unused.
For blended families, this duality is especially powerful. A linked-benefit policy can be structured to pay for an individual’s long-term care needs, protecting shared assets from being spent on custodial or nursing home care. After their passing, the remaining death benefit (or a guaranteed minimum) is then paid directly to designated beneficiaries, such as children from a previous marriage, helping to equalize inheritances without a complicated estate battle. Tailoring linked-benefit products for blended family legacy
To effectively use linked-benefit products for
blended family legacy planning, consider these strategies:
• Equalize inheritances: For many blended families, ensuring an equitable distribution of wealth is paramount. A linked-benefit policy can be used to create a dedicated, tax-free cash legacy for children from a prior marriage. The death benefit provides a financial safety net and ensures that they will not be excluded from their inheritance, regardless of future family circumstances.
• Fund an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT): For more complex or larger estates, an ILIT can provide greater control. By transferring ownership of the linked-benefit policy to an ILIT, the death benefit can be managed by a trustee and distributed according to specific instructions. This strategy can help avoid estate taxes and ensure the proceeds are handled according to the grantor’s wishes, bypassing potential family disputes.
• Cover estate taxes and expenses: For estates with significant illiquid assets, such as real estate or a family business, life insurance provides the necessary liquidity to cover estate taxes and final expenses. This prevents the forced sale of valuable assets to settle debts and ensures they can be passed on to the intended heirs intact.
• Protect the surviving spouse: Using a linked-benefit policy to pre-fund potential long-term care costs protects the couple’s primary nest egg from being drained by healthcare expenses. This allows the surviving spouse to maintain their lifestyle and ensures that other assets, like the family home, are preserved for future generations.
How linked-benefit products work
Linked-benefit products offer a variety of payment structures, providing flexibility for different financial situations. Policyholders can choose to fund their policy with a single, lumpsum premium or a series of payments over a set number of years, often 10. This predictability of cost is a major benefit, as unlike traditional LTC insurance, the premiums are typically fixed and cannot be increased by the insurer.
David M. Kopyc, CRPC®, president of Retirement Planning Group LLC in Saratoga Springs.
Rose Miller, President of Suite Advice, LLC.
Business Report
Consider An M&A Advisor When Selling
BY KATHLENE THIEL
When a business owner decides to sell their company, it’s often the culmination of years— sometimes decades—of hard work, sacrifice, and strategic growth. Yet, despite the emotional and financial weight of such a decision, many entrepreneurs attempt to navigate the complex world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) without professional guidance. That’s where an M&A advisor steps in—not just as a broker, but as a strategic partner, negotiator, and process leader who can dramatically improve outcomes.
Selling a company is a nuanced, multi-phase journey involving valuation, due diligence, legal structuring, and emotional decisionmaking. Most business owners are experts in their industry but not mergers & acquisitions. An advisor educates you on each step of the process, from initial preparation to final closing. They demystify terms like “quality of earnings,” “working capital peg,” and “reps and warranties,” ensuring you’re informed and confident. More importantly, they lead the process—setting timelines, managing milestones, and keeping all parties aligned. Without this leadership, deals can stall, unravel, or leave value on the table.
A well-prepared Confidential Information Memorandum (CIM) or offering document can make or break buyer interest. M&A advisors know how to present your company’s story in a compelling, credible, and strategic way. They highlight strengths, mitigate perceived risks, and position the business for maximum valuation. These documents aren’t just marketing tools—they’re the foundation for buyer diligence and negotiation. A sloppily prepared CIM can signal disorganization or lack of professionalism, while a polished one reinforces your credibility and sets the tone for serious engagement.
Negotiating a business sale isn’t just about price—it’s about structure, terms, and future obligations. Advisors bring deep experience in deal negotiation, helping you avoid common pitfalls like earnouts with unrealistic targets, overly broad indemnifications, or unfavorable working capital adjustments. They understand market norms and can push for favorable terms while maintaining buyer goodwill. Crucially, they function as a buffer—allowing you to maintain relationships and avoid emotional entanglements that can derail negotiations. When tensions rise, the advisor absorbs the heat, preserving your position and dignity.
Buyers—especially institutional ones— scrutinize every aspect of a deal. The presence of a seasoned M&A advisor signals that you’re serious, prepared, and professional. It reassures buyers that the process will be well-managed and that you have realistic expectations. This
Retirement
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The policies are built on a permanent life insurance chassis and provide a death benefit that is a multiple of the initial premium. If long-term care is needed, a portion of the death benefit can be “accelerated” to pay for qualified LTC expenses. The amount of accelerated benefit, and the duration it can be paid, vary by policy. If the policyholder passes away without ever needing long-term care, the death benefit is paid to the beneficiaries. If some, but not all, of the LTC benefits are used, the remaining death benefit is still paid out. Some policies even offer a guaranteed return of premium, allowing the policy to be surrendered after a certain period
Intermediary at Thiel Group.
credibility can attract more qualified buyers, increase competitive tension, and ultimately drive better offers. Advisors also help you anticipate buyer concerns and proactively address them, reducing surprises and smoothing the path to closing.
Selling a company is time-consuming. Without an advisor, you or your management team can become overwhelmed—juggling buyer calls, diligence requests, and legal reviews while still running the business. This distraction can hurt performance, which ironically affects valuation. Advisors act as gatekeepers, filtering requests, managing communications, and shielding your team from unnecessary distractions. They ensure the business stays focused and healthy throughout the sale process, preserving value and momentum.
A $20 million offer isn’t always better than a $17 million one—depending on how it’s structured. Advisors help you understand the nuances of deal economics: cash vs. stock, earnouts, escrows, rollover equity, and tax implications. They collaborate closely with accountants and attorneys to model different scenarios and optimize outcomes. These details can have millions of dollars of impact—and are often overlooked without expert guidance.
An M&A advisor is not just a broker—they’re a strategist, negotiator, educator, and advocate. They bring order to complexity, maximize value, and protect your interests every step of the way. For business owners contemplating a sale, engaging an advisor isn’t just a smart move—it’s a transformative one. In a world where one misstep can cost millions, the right advisor can make all the difference.
Kathlene Thiel, MBA is a M&A Master Intermediary, Certified Business Intermediary and Certified Valuation Analyst at ThielGroup.
to get back some or all of the initial investment.
A comprehensive approach to retirement security
Life insurance with linked-benefit products has transformed from a simple death benefit tool into a dynamic financial instrument for comprehensive retirement planning. For blended families, it is a particularly effective way to overcome complex legacy challenges and secure financial futures. By addressing the dual risks of costly long-term care and potential inheritance disputes, these products offer peace of mind. Consulting with a qualified financial advisor is the best way to explore how a linked-benefit policy can be customized to fit a blended family’s specific goals, ensuring that both spouses are protected and that a lasting, equitable legacy is passed down to all intended heirs.
Feigenbaum
Continued From Page 1
The Feigenbaum family legacy is somewhat of a classic American dream-come-true story.
Todd’s grandfather, Herman, was a tailor who learned the trade in London after moving there from Eastern Europe.
“He arrived in the U.S. in 1902 worked in sweatshops on the Lower East Side of New York,” Todd said. “He heard about a tailor’s shop in Whitehall so he put his family on a train. They had three kids at the time and my grandmother was pregnant with my father.”
“They stopped in Glens Falls to spend the night,” he said. “In the morning my aunt, who was 2 at the time, didn’t want to get back on the train and my grandmother wasn’t feeling well. So my grandfather turned to his friend who had come with him and said, ‘Is there room for another tailor in this town?’”
He said, ‘Yes,’ so they stayed.
Herman quickly discovered that there was no dry-cleaning business north of Albany. “Having worked in the garment industry of New York, he said, ‘I can do that, too.’ That was the beginning of the business,” Todd said.
The modern process of dry cleaning, which uses solvents instead of water, was developed in the early 19th century by Jean-Baptiste Jolly in France, and in 1821 was patented in the U.S. by Thomas Jennings, an African-American entrepreneur and civil rights activist.
“It really took off in the late 19th century and early 20th century,” Todd said.
Herman Feigenbaum had a tailor shop on South Street, Glens Falls, and ran the cleaning business out of his home at 3 Fulton Street, where people came to pick up their clothing.
Todd’s father, Louis, and uncle, Bill, took over the business after coming home from the service in World War II. In 1947, they purchased a building near the Fulton Street house and moved there.
In the late 19th century it had housed a livery where people could buy a horse for their horse and carriage. But it went out of business after 1910 when cars became more popular and was then home to a silk factory with a rare loom that used a process known as the Glens Falls
weave to make silk and satin material for ladies’ undergarments.
The silk factory closed during the Great Depression.
Todd’s father eventually ran Feigenbaum’s by himself and Todd and his wife took over in 1986. Next February would have marked their 40th anniversary in business.
“We were doing great until COVID hit,” Todd said “When people stopped going to work we saw 80 percent of our business disappear in four days. We even closed our stores for a couple months. At least 25 percent of dry cleaners in the U.S. disappeared because of COVID.”
More recently, sales had finally been restored to pre-COVID levels.
Many customers are professional and business people.
“Even people who buy non-wrinkle shirts bring them in to be pressed because there’s nothing like a professionally pressed shirt,” Todd said.
“We could do a much better job with the equipment we have than you can at home with an iron.”
In addition to dry cleaning, Best Cleaners “offers wash-and-fold subscriptions for people who want us to do their everyday laundry,” Brand said.
“We have plans for singles, couples and families. We also do in-house leather cleaning.”
Alterations and tailoring are offered, too.
Best Cleaners, which had 60 employees prior to acquiring Feigenbaum’s, is one of three firms McCann owns. The others are CRDN, which does water and smoke restoration (20 employees); and Amazon Logistics, a delivery service (100 employees).
Brand said the Feigenbaum’s Bay Street store will close this month. Front end employees are expected to be relocated to one of the company’s other locations.
But about 12 cleaning production workers lost their jobs because Best Cleaners has such facilities elsewhere. Todd said some employees have already found new jobs as many local employers are hiring.
He still owns the Bay Street property. There are no immediate plans for its sale, he said.
Kathlene Thiel, MBA, CVA M&A Master
BY ROD BACON
A restaurant channeling the cruizin’ culture of the ‘50s and ‘60s, and paying homage to a popular song originated by Big Joe Turner that was covered by Bill Haley & His Comets, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and even The Beatles, among others, opened last month in Queensbury.
Shake, Rattle & Roll, owned by Fort Ann concrete contractor Dale Baldwin, has been taking shape for the past five years.
“We worked on it in the winter when concrete work was slow,” said Baldwin.
The 3,024-square-foot building was erected by Peterson Builders Framing Contractors of Charlotte, N.C. Baldwin’s son, Travis, did all the fi nish carpentry and his daughter, Amanda, performed the painting and staining tasks. Glens Falls-based E&T O’Connor did the site work and DE Contracting of Lake George did the paving. Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning of Queensbury installed the plumbing and heating.
The restaurant, which will be open from April through November, serves hamburgers and “Hound Dog” hot dogs, with sides of french fries, mac-and-cheese, potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans. Twelve flavors of ice cream that can be ordered in cones, sundaes, floats, or banana splits, are offered for dessert. The ice cream, which can also be ordered from a walk-up ice cream window, is from King Brothers Dairy in Schuylerville.
The restaurant can seat approximately 66 people.
The chef is Steve LaBarge, whose professional background includes stints at the Hard Rock Cafe in New York City and the Holiday Inn in Lake George.
Baldwin’s daughter-in-law, Shannon Baldwin, is the manager.
Patrons will be impressed by Baldwin’s display of automobile-themed memorabilia, which he has been collecting for more than 30 years.
“Some of what I have is over a hundred years
old,” he said. “Everything is original.”
Baldwin notes he chose the name of the restaurant based on the popular song. He hopes to host events featuring antique and classic cars as the eatery gains popularity. In fact, he has been approached by a 200-member Model T club that plans to make his venue a stop during a rally next year that will start at Fort William Henry in Lake George and tour throughout the Adirondacks and Vermont.
His personal collection includes two Model Ts and a Model A.
“I’ve always liked old cars,” he said. “I’ve had them since I was a kid.”
Now that Shake, Rattle & Roll is up and rolling, Baldwin is moving on to his next project. Throughout the coming winter he will be working on a separate building that will house a Farm Market that will offer a selection of vegetables, fruit, pies, cider donuts, jellies, maple syrup, and honey, among other delectable foods. Plans call for Amanda to oversee that enterprise. Baldwin hopes to have it open in spring 2026.
Even after the market is completed, Baldwin doesn’t plan to rest on his laurels. The property at the corner of Routes 149 and 9 L encompasses 25 acres. Baldwin said he might build a strip mall at the rear of the property.
“I’ve had several people express interest in renting a spot in one,” he said.
Baldwin & Sons Concrete Contracting was started by Dale’s father, Ken, in 1967. The business then passed to Dale, and his sons, Travis and Zack, now oversee day-to-day operations. Ken had an entrepreneurial spirit like Dale’s and started Hillbilly Fun Park in West Fort Ann in 1989. He operated it with his wife, Milly, until he sold it.
Radio station WCKM hosted a grand opening celebration for the restaurant on August 23, which featured Morning Club personalities Pete Cloutier and Dan Miner.
Shake, Rattle & Roll’s hours are 11:30 a.m.8:30 p.m., seven days a week.
Shake, Rattle & Roll recently opened at the corner of Routes 149 and 9L in Queensbury, serving up burgers, hot dogs, and ice cream with a nostalgic ‘50s and ‘60s flair.
Courtesy Shake, Rattle & Roll
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and warehousing on July 1. Plans call for moving machines there in January.
Essity vacated its Greenwich converting facility in July 2023, at the same time its South Glens Falls paper mill closed, eliminating 300 jobs.
Morcon tried to buy the 230,000-square-foot Greenwich building, but Essity refused to sell to a competitor.
Fort Miller Group bought it for $4.5 million, despite being outbid by Morcon.
Fort Miller Group purchased the building to consolidate operations for two of its four subsidiary firms, Access Anvil Corp. and TYMETAL.
Access Anvil specializes in overhead doors, fence and gate installation, and the Scott System, which makes urethane formliners, concrete formwork and thin brick inlay systems for the construction industry.
TYMETAL is a leading manufacturer of perimeter security systems, including commercial, industrial and correctional gates, and crash barriers.
Access Anvil was previously located on Route 9 in Glens Falls and in Greenwich. “Now they’re all together in the same location,” said Rick Schumaker, Fort Miller Group director. “That’s the main reason for buying the building. It’s in spectacular shape. We didn’t have to do much at all. We renovated the offices and moved Access Anvil in right away.”
Likewise, TYMETAL is continually expanding, so the former Essity building gives it room to grow, too, he said.
Fort Miller Group also owns Fort Miller Precast, which manufactures precast concrete infrastructure for highways, bridges and utilities, and FM Service Corp., which makes burial vaults.
The group’s four companies employ 580 people.
After Access Anvil and TYMETAL moved to the former Essity plant, there was still a great deal of vacant space, which Morcon is now leasing.
Morcon buys paper on the open market from U.S. suppliers and others in Canada, Mexico, Indonesia, Turkey and Italy. About 80 percent of the paper it buys is recycled. The rest is virgin grade, mostly from fast-growing trees such as eucalyptus found in warmer climates.
“The U.S. is the number one user of disposable napkins, towels and tissue per capita,” Raccuia said. “This is the place everybody wants to come to sell paper. There’s plenty of opportunity for us
to buy and convert paper.”
Morcon’s corporate headquarters are at 18 Division St., Saratoga Springs, where it employs 22 salaried workers. The converting operation has 48 hourly employees, and plans call for adding eight to 10 jobs there by the middle of next year.
In addition to upstate New York, the company has a converting facility in South Carolina. Paper purchased from overseas arrives in containers by ship, off-loaded in New York or Charleston, and trucked to converting plants.
Converting machinery cuts large rolls into finished products.
Raccuia said Morcon is finalizing plans for a warehouse in California and is also considering Texas.
Morcon’s Eagle Bridge facility is already listed for sale.
“I’m hoping that someone recognizes its potential,” Raccuia said. “It’s a beautiful building. If it’s not sold by the second quarter next year, we’ll use it to store paper or finished goods.”
Raccuia’s career in the Glens Falls-Saratoga region began more than 30 years ago, when he was named chief executive officer to lead a turnaround at the former Encore Paper Co. in South Glens Falls.
Encore was purchased by SCA Tissue in 2001, and Raccuia became president and CEO of SCA Tissue North America, leading the business to more than $1 billion in sales.
In 2009, he decided to stay closer to home and crossed the river to join Finch Paper in Glens Falls as president and CEO. He purchased Morcon four years later.
SCA Tissue was renamed Essity in 2017. In 2023, it ceased operating in upstate New York and Arizona and shifted all paper-making to Wisconsin, Kentucky and Alabama.
Essity is a competitor of Morcon’s, but Raccuia said he had bittersweet feelings about the South Glens Falls mill’s closure because that’s where he started out locally.
Essity has refused to sell its properties to another papermaking company. “That prohibits a lot of people from doing anything with it,” Raccuia said.
Similarly, Lehigh Hanson cement company refused to sell its Glens Falls plant to a competitor after shuttering the facility in 2023, leaving two large industrial sites vacant with questionable prospects for reuse.
Aviation Mall
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connect to the mall, giving residents direct access to its amenities and hopefully attract new mall tenants by putting a large market at their doorstep.
Like malls throughout America, the 630,000-square-foot Aviation Mall has been greatly impacted by online shopping, but with five anchors it still generates $80 million in taxable revenue per year and attracts more than 8,000 people daily, Griffith said.
In an effort to reinvent itself, the mall has become more geared to sports, fitness and entertainment-type tenants in recent years, and has more space to grow in those areas.
A 50,000-square-foot space adjacent to Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, part of the former Bon-Ton store, is currently vacant.
Griffith said this site would be ideal for a trampoline-type firm or something like Billy Beez, the children’s indoor playground and recreation center at Crossgates Mall in Albany. This would be a good attraction for younger children, while ADK Karting is designed for teens and adults, he said.
“I really feel like that would be a great opportunity in that location,” Griffith said. “We’ve talked to many potential tenants. I think they want to see how ADK Karting does before they step up to the plate and make a decision on that space.”
He said Regal cinema is a major contributor to mall business as well.
“The movie lineup for this fall is great again,” Griffith said. “Last year Wicked did a phenomenal job in November. That’s going to be the same this year with the new movie, Wicked: For Good. That’s going to be a huge draw. The movie theater is doing phenomenal. In fact it’s performing over its pre-pandemic numbers.”
In addition to Regal, the mall’s major anchors are Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Ollie’s and JC Penney, an original tenant since October 1975 when the mall welcomed its first customers.
Discussions are under way with several potential local tenants to fi ll smaller spaces, and holiday “pop-ups” are expected prior to Christmas, too, he said.
Griffith said there won’t be any dramatic new “bells and whistles” visual changes to the mall under new ownership. “But we are going to have some backhouse changes to make the property run more efficiently from a balance sheet standpoint,” he said. “As we become more efficient with expenses, that can be turned into operating dollars reinvested in the mall.”
The center employs 15 office, maintenance and security personnel directly.
ADK Karting is being developed by Jeremy Treadway, who owns and operates ADK MX, a motocross facility at the former Country Meadows Golf Course in Fort Ann, and Country Meadows Barn, a wedding and special events venue.
The ADK Karting track, designed and built by 360 Karting of Slovenia, will be set up as a flat road course with left- and right-turns, straightaways, a vibrant coloring system, and special coating on the concrete surface that promotes traction, stability and safety. The track has lanes so karts go along side one another just like a race.
Competitive leagues will be organized for experienced drivers.
In addition, plans call for six simulators that let people feel like they’re behind the wheel in a NASCAR race or competing in one of the world’s most famous international circuits.
